A is for Africa: 5

``This alphabet is based on my own favorite images of the Africa I know,'' writes Onyefulu, a member of the Igbo tribe who grew up in Nigeria and now lives in London. And though her penetrating photos were taken in her native country, she notes that the traditions and spirit she hopes to convey are common to ``all the peoples of this vast, friendly, colorful continent.'' The beautifully composed color photos, arranged alphabetically by subject, feature objects or practices representing various facets of African customs and culture: ``B is for the Beads a girl may wear on her head, ears or neck''; ``R is for River. Africans believe many rivers are sacred.'' Emphasized throughout are individuals' affection and concern for one another (``E is the embrace we give our loved ones''; ``K is for Kola nuts offered to guests to show warmth and friendship''; ``S is for Shaking hands''). A talented photographer, Onyefulu affords her audience an incisive, sophisticated view of her homeland's rich heritage. Ages 3-8. (Sept.)